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Rwanda and the world will, on Monday, April 7, begin the 31st annual commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, a three-months period that honours the victims of the genocide and reaffirms the country’s commitment to the “never again” resolve.
The activities will kick off with a commemoration week starting on April 7, centred around the theme “Remember, Unite, Renew.” The period will reflect on the tragic history that led to the genocide, but will also talk about the rebuilding journey, unity, and resilience of Rwandans, as well as the collective responsibility to fight genocide and its manifestations.
Here is the programme of how the commemoration will unfold over the three months’ period:
- April 7: Public holiday for commemoration across the country
At national level, commemoration events will begin on April 7 at Kigali Genocide Memorial where the national ceremony will take place. During the week of mourning, the national flag will fly at half-mast.
A “Walk to Remember” will start from the Parliament and end at BK Arena, from where a night vigil will be held. The events will be broadcast on national radio and television.
In each of Rwanda’s 30 districts, commemoration will begin at the district memorial centres or other designated memorial sites. At village level, remembrance ceremonies will include discussions organised by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE), followed by a message of the day.
The activities will conclude by noon to allow regular activities to resume.
Essential services, including pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, will continue to operate even in the morning hours, just as transportation and hospitality.
- April 8-13: Commemoration week
The commemoration week, from April 8 to 13, will feature activities across the country on dates set by relevant authorities.
For example, on April 10, a lecture will be held for foreign diplomats and international organizations in Rwanda, alongside youth events.
On April 11, a “Walk to Remember” will take place in Kicukiro District, starting at IPRC Kicukiro, followed by a commemoration evening at Nyanza Genocide Memorial in Kicukiro.
Throughout the week, business activities, individual sports, team training, and other livelihood activities will continue.
On April 13, an event will be held at Rebero Genocide Memorial to honour the politicians who were killed while opposing the genocide.
- April to July 3: Three months’ commemoration activities
Commemoration activities will take place across public and private institutions from April 8 to July 3, with dates chosen by each institution.
Each institution will invite a knowledgeable speaker, either internal or external, to participate.
In schools, the administration will form a committee to organise the commemoration. Schools will hold a special day of remembrance, visit memorials, and host talks when students return from their holidays.
According to MINUBUMWE, commemoration events will not exceed three hours.
A sample programme includes: a minute of remembrance, a prayer by a religious representative, a welcoming speech, a discussion on the Genocide, a commemorative song or poem, and a testimony on the Genocide.
